Tuberculosis in India: Understanding the Impact and Prevention

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It's a significant public health concern in India, with millions of cases reported annually. In 2021, there were 21,35,670 TB cases detected in India, resulting in 89,823 reported deaths. Of particular concern is the impact of TB on children, with an estimated 3.33 lakh (333,000) children aged 0–14 years falling ill with TB each year, making up 28% of the global childhood TB burden and contributing to childhood mortality in the country.

TB is an infectious disease transmitted through the air, but it doesn't spread easily through casual contact. Close and prolonged contact with an infected person is typically required for transmission. It doesn't spread through common activities like handshakes, kissing, sharing food or drinks, or contact with surfaces. The bacterium can remain suspended in the air for hours, making proper precautions necessary, especially in crowded places, public transportation, and confined spaces.

Symptoms of TB include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood, weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, chills, and weight loss. However, latent TB is also a concern, where the body contains the TB bacteria without exhibiting symptoms. Even without symptoms, latent TB can become active at any time.

TB can affect various parts of the body, not just the lungs, including the brain, kidneys, spine, and more. If left untreated, TB can lead to severe lung damage and potentially be fatal, making it one of the leading infectious causes of death globally.

As it is said, prevention is better than cure, a vaccine named Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is available and administered to individuals at higher risk of TB exposure. Additionally, preventive measures such as wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, covering your mouth when coughing, and bathing upon returning home can help reduce the risk of infection and transmission.

Proper ventilation, natural light, and good hygiene practices are essential for reducing the risk of TB in indoor spaces. A strong immune system plays a significant role in preventing the progression of latent TB to active disease.

Fortunately, TB is treatable with medications like Isoniazid, Rifampin, Ethambutol, Pyrazinamide, and Rifapentine. However, treatment can be lengthy, often lasting up to nine months. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preventing the spread of the disease and minimizing its impact on individuals and communities.